Risk factors for scholastic backwardness in children.

AIM To identify the risk factors for scholastic backwardness in children. PARTICIPANTS Children in the 6-12 year age group attending regular schools and referred to the child guidance clinic for scholastic backwardness. SETTING Tertiary care hospital in South India. METHODS Participants were compared with an age-and sex- matched group of children with good academic performance, to ascertain risk factors for scholastic backwardness. RESULTS There were 75 boys and 35 girls in the study group. Among them 30 (27%) children had mental retardation, 39 (36%) had borderline intelligence and 12 (11%) had microcephaly. Undernutrition was noted in 36 (33%) children and 31 (28%) had stunted growth. 28 (26%) children had a history of chronic medical problems like epilepsy, bronchial asthma and congenital heart diseases. Visual, hearing and speech defects were present in 6 (6%), 5 (5%) and 12 (11%) children, respectively. Statistically significant differences were noted in the educational level and employment status of parents of children with scholastic backwardness and those with good academic performance. CONCLUSIONS Social and family factors have a significant influence on the academic functioning of children.